Cass Morgan, IL-2020 Overlay

ATTRACTIONS

If you’re looking for something to do, the attractions listed on these pages give you plenty of options from which to choose. From hunting and fishing in the great outdoors to learning about our history in one of our museums, you can plan on finding something to do anytime of the year in any season. This list is a mere introduction of the fun our region offers. For more information, please call one of the numbers listed at the end of this section.

Museums Old City Hall & Historic Lincoln Courtroom Southwest Corner of the City Square Beardstown, IL 62618

This city hall was originally built in 1844 to serve as the Cass County Courthouse. The building itself is an important part of history because it contains the only courtroom where Abraham Lincoln once practiced law that is still in use today. In this very courtroom, Lincoln tried many cases, including the famous Almanac Trial in 1858, when he successfully defended William “Duff” Armstrong against murder charges. Rudy A. Black Collection This museum houses a fine collection of Civil War guns, Indian artifacts, and other memorabilia. One display features dishes that belonged to Nancy Beard, the wife of the town’s founder. Located on the Southwest corner of the city square, behind the Lincoln Courtroom in the Beardstown Courthouse. Open Monday through Friday, noon – 4 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Grand Opera House This 1872 opera house is currently being restored. Inside, it features frescoed ceilings, a large stage and dressing rooms, with an interior boasting electric lights that were unique in 1893.

River Museum Southwest Corner of City Square Beardstown, IL 62618 217-323-3271

Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish & Wildlife Area 10149 County Highway 11 Chandlerville, IL 62627 217-452-7741 Wal-Mart Super Center 100 Lincoln Ave. Beardstown, IL 62618 217-323-1340 S & R Marine & Equipment 815 E. 15th Beardstown, IL 62618 217-323-2730 Hunting & Fishing Licenses

Golf Four Willows Golf Course 34323 E CR 1000N Mason City, IL 62664 217-482-3349 Rail Golf 1400 S Club House Dr Springfield, IL 62707 217-525-0365 Scripps Golf Course 120 Ellen Scripps Dr. Rushville, IL 62681 217-322-4444 Shambolee Golf Course 442 S Shore Dr Petersburg, IL 62675 217-632-2140

This educational museum also serves as a visitor’s center and is housed in the Chamber of Commerce office. Inside, visitors will find items relating to the Illinois River and the river’s importance in the development of the city and surrounding region. There are handcrafted models of riverboats, modern and antique equipment such as ice cutting saws, hunting and fishing tackle and boat and barge gear. The visitor’s center offers plenty of information on the area along with several displays relating to the Beardstown Ladies. You may also purchase their autographed books and other products here. Open Monday through Friday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

10